Review of Research Progress in Nontraditional Machining of Ultrahigh-Temperature Ceramic Matrix Composites

Ultrahigh-temperature ceramic matrix composites are currently among the most promising high-temperature-resistant materials, owing to their high-temperature strength, high-toughness and excellent corrosion resistance; they are widely used in national defense and aerospace fields. However, it is a difficult material to machine, and high precision is difficult to achieve using traditional machining methods. Nontraditional machining methods are not constrained by material physical and mechanical properties, and good surface quality is easily obtained, which is an important direction in the field of ultrahigh-temperature ceramic matrix composites. This paper summarizes the recent nontraditional machining methods utilized in the fabrication of ultrahigh-temperature ceramic matrix composites. Firstly, various nontraditional machining methods for ultrahigh-temperature ceramic matrix composites based on borides, carbides and nitrides are reviewed, and the machining performances under different machining conditions are compared. Subsequently, the problems and challenges of ultrahigh-temperature ceramic matrix composite nontraditional machining are summarized and discussed. Lastly, the future development path of nontraditional machining methods for ultrahigh-temperature ceramic matrix composites is summarized and predicted.